The Daily tech news : April 21st 2010

Please add SlashGear The Daily tech news: April 21st 2010 April 22, 2010 at 12:15 AM daily tech news : Welcome to the most recent hump day edition of the Dailly Slash. It's the middle of the week and we're sure you're pining to get your feet firmly planted t0 the end of the week, but until we get there, at least you've got us. Tonight's edition is pretty lengthy, at least in one part, but we promise it's worth it. First up, in the Best of R3, we've got a whole laundry list of new devices from Dell, then iPads being used in the medical field, and finally a huge piece of bad news for the HTC Hero. And then in the dredge 'net, we've got Android running on the iPhone, a washing machine, and then Microsoft pitching some live TV ideas. The Best of R3 Dell Introduces the Thunder, Flash, and Smoke: We're going out on a limb here and saying that Dell obviously wants to make sure that they're a presence in the smartphone market again. And, if they release even one of these Android-based devices, we'll firmly admit that they've made it. The Dell Thunder is an Android 2.1-based handset, with a 4.1-inch WVGA OLED screen. It has an 8MP camera on the back, and it features Dell's "Stage" User Interface, which looks eerily like HTC's Sense UI. It's going to be hitting AT&T later this year, and there's even going to be an LTE model in the fourth quarter 2011. The Flash is a ridiculous piece of architecture, with Dell aiming to mold it out of a slice of curved glass. Yeah, sounds expensive, right? It will feature a 3.5-inch WVGA LCD screen, a 5MP camera, WiFi, TV-out, Bluetooth 3.0, and a Qualcomm MSM7230 processor running at 800MHz. And fin! ally the Dell Smoke, which is like a Palm Pixi but that got beat with a sexy stick. Featuring a beautiful full QWERTY keyboard, with a 2.8-inch QVGA display. It's also featuring Android's Froyo version, wh already makes it a highly anticipated device. The trouble is, the Smoke won't launch until the second quarter of 2011. [Thunder via Android Community; Flash via Android Community; Smoke via Android Community] 100 iPads Ordered for California Hospital: The iPad is a perfect fit for the medical industry, and Nick Volosin thinks so, too. He's the Director of Technical Services for the Kaweah Delta Health Care District, and after he managed to get there iPads over to his hospital to test out, they've now put in an order for an additional 100 tablets for their staff. Utilizing the Citrix Receiver, they can take full control of a virtual PC to watch over patient statistics, read X-rays, and look over EKG results while on the go. [via Everything iPad] HTC Hero Won't be Seeing 2.1 Until June: Bad day for the owners of the original HTC Hero. According to an email correspondence, it doesn't look like the Hero is going to be seeing any kind of major update until June. They will be getting an update to prepare their handsets by some time in June, and then a short time later, the full Eclair update will be delivered to their devices. the way from February or March, if you ask us, and considering the HTC Desire is already out and about, we can't see why customers are still waiting. [via SlashPhone] The Dredge Net Android Lives on the iPhone: It's about time, right? According to a recent posted video, the notorious iPhone hacker planetbeing has successfully booted the Google mobile Operating System, Android, onto a fully functional iPhone. And, everything works. You can watch in the video as he tries several different features, such as a Skype call. Planetbeing even says that Flash could be supported. As of right now he is able to actually dual-boot, and choose which mobile Operating System he wants to load. It's good to have choices, right? [via Quick Pwn] Even Washers of the Future Are Awesome: We'd have to say that perhaps "thinner isn't better" when it comes to washing machines, as the idea is to get as much done in a single load as possible, but we can't argue a sexy piece of technology when we see one. For example, this Electrolux washing machine is just about ridiculous, and we can't stop staring at the beautiful illuminated ring of light. It changes color depending on what cycle your wash is in, so you'll always know, just by a quick glance, what stage your clothes are currently being washed. A great idea, especially considering there's a wall-mounted model, as well as one that fits into the cabinets. Great ideas that we hope to see come to fruition soon. [via DVICE] Microsoft Planning a Live TV Channel for Xbox 360: As video game consoles go, there's definitely several different features for each of them. And, while Sony has already tried their hand at original video content, it seems that Microsoft wants to test out the action, too. According to a recent report, it seems that Microsoft is in current talks with former President of News Corp., Peter Chernin, to create a dedicated TV Channel for the Xbox 360 LIVE network. The channel would be jointly owned, and would not only have new, original content, but also air reruns of old shows, so that there is always something playing. Customers would have to pay an additional one, or two dollars a month to access the channel, though. [via TG Daily] Relevant Entries on SlashGear April 21st Bluetooth 3.0 announcement confirmed Xbox 360 USB storage update arrives today T-Mobile holding launch event on April 21st AT&T Em! ployees Blocked From Vacationing in June HTC EVO 4G Makes an Appearance in Sprint Inventory System Dell Lightning Introduces Windows Phone 7 in a Portrait Slider April 21, 2010 at 11:08 PM Apparently, Dell has had some things cooking in the proverbial oven, b3cause they've all spilled out tonight. While the majority of them feature a different mobile Operating System, the Lightning features the upcoming Windows Phone 7. And, from the looks of it, even if Windows Phone 7 isn't officially available, Dell isn't messing around. We're sure that you're staring at these renders in shock and awe, just as we are, because yes, these are remarkably good looking devices. It's been a long time since we've seen a portrait slider actually look worth it, and Dell has indeed made it worth it. Because, under these gorgeous aesthetic sharp angles, we've got some impressive specs: 1GHz Snapdragon processor, AT&T and T-Mobile USA 3G bands, a 5MP autofocus camera on the back, and a 4.1-inch WVGA OLED display. Also on the inside, we've got 1GB of flash memory, along side 512MB RAM, with an additional 8GB of storage thrown in for good measure. The interesting part of that last bit, is that it's on an 8GB MicroSD card, but we're going to safely assume that you can't replace it on your own. It also features GPS, an accelerometer, integrated FM radio, and a compass. Oddly enough, despite the fact Microsoft says Windows Phone 7 won't support Flash Player at the start, the Lightning does anyway. But, the most important part, is that the handset is upgradeable to LTE in the fourth quarter of 2011. So, even a year after the phone launches, it will still be relevant. (At least, that's the plan, right?) The phone should launch the fourth quarter this year, but no word on pricing. [via Engadget] Relevant Entries on SlashGear Nokia designs phone that detects lightning Lightning never strikes the same iPod twice – once is enough Pantech c810, Makers of Helio Ocean Release 2nd Dual Slider LG KH1800 also known as the Orange phone Helio Dual-Slider Messenger handset leaked on FCC Amazon Kindle Hitting Target Shelves Starting April 25th April 21, 2010 at 5:13 PM After we heard grumblings about the eReader from Amazon slinking away from the digital store shelves and finally seeing some brick-and-mortar aisles, it's finally coming true. There's a big caveat to the whole "April 25th" thing, though, and unless you're in Minneapolis, it may sadden you a bit. But, don't be too dismayed, as there's always a silver lining. Right now, as you're more than aware, the Kindle is only sold on Amazon's digital marketplace, and it's there that the eReader made a huge impact for the online retailer. The Kindle is still the number one bestselling item, along with the most wished for, and most gifted item. And since Target is the first brick-and-mortar establishment to sell the Kindle, they're doing something special for it: Target's flagship store in downtown Minneapolis, and its 102 South Florida stores, starting on April 25th. That's what we had heard before, but we had imagined it would have been a national roll-out. That silver lining we mentioned above, details that Target will begin to roll out the Kindle in more stores later in the year. No exact time frame, but at least it's happening at all. The Kindle will still retail for $259 at Target stores, just as it does online, so there won't be any kind of discount. But, at least you'll be able to touch the e-ink display, and hold the light device in your grip before you decide to buy. Full press release below. Target(R) Stores to Sell Kindle, Amazon's Revolutionary Wireless Reading Device Kindle Available in Select Target Stores April 25 MINNEAPOLIS, Apr 21, 2010 (BUSINESS WIRE) — Target Corporation today announced that Target is bringing Kindle, Amazon's most wished for, most gifted and #1 bestselling product, to Target guests. As the first brick-and-mortar retailer to carry Amazon's Kindle, Target will make Kindle available at its flagship downtown Minneapolis store and 102 south Florida stores beginning April 25, rolling out to more Target stores later this year. Kindle is Amazon's purpose-built reading device that wirelessly downloads books, magazines, newspapers, blogs, and personal documents to a crisp, high resolution electronic paper display that looks and reads like real paper. Kindle fits comfortably in one hand for hours, has an e-ink display that is easy on the eyes even in bright daylight, two weeks of battery life, and 3G wireless with no monthly fees. Customers can read and sync their Kindle books on iPhones, iPod touches, PCs, BlackBerrys, Macs, and iPads. These features, paired with the massive selection of over 500,000 books available in the Kindle Store, have made Kindle the bestselling product across the millions of items available at Amazon.com. Kindle, which will retail for $259, has been available for purchase on Amazon.com exclusively, but now Target guests can see and touch the e-reader before they buy. Giving Target guests the opportunity to experience a Kindle before they buy is in keeping with Target's commitment to providing quality products and a best-in-class shopping experience. "We're excited to be working with Amazon to help even more readers discover Kindle, in-store only at Target," said Mark Schindele, senior vice president, Target. "We strive to enhance our product offerings to include surprising products and services at great values so we're proud to be the first brick-and-mortar retailer to sell Kindle, allowing our guests to feel how lightweight and easy on the eyes Kindle is." "Target's reputation for excellence and value makes it the perfect fit for Kindle," said Steve Kessel, senior vice president, Amazon Kindle. "We're excited to work with them to bring readers around the country a new way to discover and buy Kindle, and with it, wireless access to a massive selection of over 500,000 books." About Target Minneapolis-based Target Corporation /quotes/comstock/13*!tgt/quotes/nls/tgt (TGT 56.81, -0.12, -0.21%) serves guests at 1,740 stores in 49 states nationwide and at Target.com. Target is committed to providing a fun and convenient shopping experience with access to unique and highly differentiated products at affordable prices. Since 1946, the corporation has given 5 percent of its income through community grants and programs like Take Charge of Education. Today, that giving equals more than $3 million a week. Amazon Forward-Looking Statements This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, new products, services and technologies, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, inventory, government regulation and taxation, payments and fraud. More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com's financial results is included in Amazon.com's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its most recent Ann! ual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent filings. Kindle devices are sold to Target Corporation through Amazon Fulfillment Services, Inc. or its affiliates. Relevant Entries on SlashGear Kindle breaks sales record during November Amazon confirm International Kindle DX is coming Amazon Kindle DX sold out: 4-6 week delay Amazon will replace! Kindle 2 screens for free Kindle breaks another record and can still get here for Christmas Microsoft Xbox 360 Custom Weta Casemod Makes Limited Editions Look Cheap April 21, 2010 at 4:31 PM Custom made things are always welcome here, and you get an honorable mention for making something that's relatively normal on a regular basis look this awesome. Because, truth be told, this has to be the best looking Xbox 360 we've ever seen. Then again, we shouldn't expect any less from Weta Studios over there in New Zealand, now should we? This Xbox 360 just happens to be the one millionth Xbox 360 to be sold in New Zealand and Australia. It's a pretty noteworthy achievement, so it's obvious that they wanted to make sure that the Xbox 360 itself was noteworthy. And more so than those "normal" limited edition models that get released every once in awhile. The only difference here is, it's going to be auctioned off for charity. The design comes from Richard Taylor and a team at Weta Workshop. As you can see in glorious detail, the system features a miniature Master Chief firing an Assault Rifle into the side of the console. And then there's the guts of the system falling out on the other side. The console is going to make its way to eBay, where it will start its auctioning days there. It's all meant to raise money for the David Peachey Foundation (which helps kids from rural areas find their ways to sports), and Microsoft has said that they will match whatever the console goes for, and then add an additional $10,000 to Cure Kids. We can imagine this will go for a hefty sum, but it's well worth it. Especially for the charities involved. [via TechnaBob] Relevant Entries on SlashGear Rumor – Microsoft to cut price of HD DVD add-on for Xbox 360 in Europe Hack – Use a cheap HDMI cable on your Xbox 360 Premium Microsoft Red Xbox 360 Resident Evil Limited Edition confirmed Limited Edition Grand Theft Auto IV Xbox 360 An Xbox Car by Nissan and Microsoft MSI GX640 Features Intel Core i5 for All PC Gamers Out There April 21, 2010 at 4:10 PM We love our gaming laptops, no doubt about that. It doesn't help when companies make them look good, either. Like, for example, this latest gaming set up from MSI Computer Corp., which features quite a few goodies that will make any PC gamer out there want to take a second look. Who can turn down a brushed aluminum case and fire engine red accents? Exactly. The MSI GX640 is a 15.4-inch LCD screen with 1680×1050 resolution notebook completely centered on PC gaming. It features Intel's new Core i5 processor, which can improve the battery life of the notebook by up to 15%. The notebook also promotes Intel's Turbo Boost technology, designed to increase the overall performance of the machine up to 30%, making sure that your titles run as smoothly as possible. Also inside you'll find 4 GB of DDR3 memory, a 500GB hard drive at 7200 rpm, a 9-cell battery, Bluetooth connectivity and Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium 64 bit Additionally, there's an ATI Radeon HD5850 graphics card with 1 GB DDR5. And the GPU inside the GX640 rocks DirectX 11 graphics support, which means that as time progresses and new games come out, your new new notebook will be able to show them off. The keyboard is of the raised chiclet variety, which should make i t easier for you to type on. (Not that you'll be typing all that much, right?) MSI also made the W, S, A, and D keys a bit more pronounced with clear markings, so that you can find those often used keys faster. You can order it right now from Amazon for $1,099.99, and it will also be made available from Newegg later this month, if you feel like you can wait. Full press release below. CITY OF INDUSTRY, CA – April 21, 2010 – MSI Computer Corp., a leading manufacturer of computer hardware products and solutions, is proud to announce the availability of the new 15.4-inch GX640 gaming notebook. The GX640 comes locked and loaded with Intel's powerful new Core i5 processor and the ATI Radeon HD5850 graphics card with 1 GB DDR5. It is the gaming notebook of choice for Evil Geniuses, the number one ranked professional gaming team in North America. "When you're competing at the absolute highest level, your equipment has a huge effect on your performance," said Alexander Garfield, Executive Director of Evil Geniuses. "Our professional gamers stay on top of the competition with the help of the world's finest gaming Notebooks from MSI Computer. They give us the edge we need to bring home championship after championship." GX640's new GPU supports DirectX 11 graphics, future-proofing the notebook for the next generation of games and 3D graphics. Its Core i5 processor improves battery life by as much as 15% and features Intel's new Turbo Boost technology which can increase overall performance by as much as 30%, ensuring smooth gameplay. The new lightweight notebook is housed in a stylish brushed aluminum case with fire engine red accents The GX640 features a raised chiclet keyboard, for increased accuracy and comfort while typing, and clearly marked W, A, S and D keys for quick response while gaming. The GX640 ships with a 15.4-inch LCD screen with 1680×1050 resolution, 4 GB of DDR3 memory, a 500GB hard drive 7200 rpm, a 9-cell battery, Bluetooth connectivity and Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium 64 bit. The GX640 is priced at $1099.99 and is available now at Amazon and will be available on Newegg later this month. About MSI Notebook Based in City of Industry California, MSI Notebook manufactures and sells a wide array of mobile computing products that includes Gaming Notebooks, the X-Slim line of ultraportables, the Classic Series Notebooks and MSI's award winning line of Wind Netbooks. Each product line is designed with the latest technology to meet a specific set of needs for the various classifications of mobile users. To learn more about MSI Notebook's complete offering please visit www.msimobile.com. Relevant Entries on SlashGear Skype provides exclusive Intel calling features Intel Penryn Mobile CPU set for Q1 2008 Intel to Launch Quad-Core Chips This Year Intel shows off 80 Core CPU Intel announces first Core 2 Duo chips with 1333MHz FSB Microsoft and Facebook Working on Ousting Google Docs April 21, 2010 at 3:22 PM Today, the f8 conference is going on, and already there's a shockwave felt from the conversations therein. More than likely you've used one of the many services available to you from Google Docs, the online document creating service brought to you by Google. They've actually just updated their service, too. But, it looks like Microsoft wants to jump into the whole cloud-based-document-creating-game, because Microsoft's FUSE labs and Facebook have collaborated to bring the world Docs.com. So, what's the big deal? Well, with the connection to Facebook, Docs.com works as a social networking tool just as much as an online document creation tool. Docs.com connects directly to your Facebook profile, and you'll be able to share documents with your Facebook friends, collaboratively edit what you create, and sneak a peek at the documents that your friends have created on their own time. Users can choose to make their created documents public or private. Additionally, right on your Facebook page you can add a new tab that will list all the documents you've shared with your profile. Additionally, while you can upload Microsoft Office and other text documents to Google Docs, Docs.com is integrated with not only Facebook, but also Microsoft Word, and the full Office suite. The sharing capabilities are a bit expanded, obviously, as the scope of Facebook has been fused with the entire effort. But, it doesn't take a blind man to see that this is a direct attack at Google, and the services they provide. It will take some major effort from Microsoft to get Docs.com where it needs to be to compete with Google Docs, especially considering the major lead Google's service has in the market. But, Microsoft has tried crazier things, and there's nothing hurting the Redmond-based company by having Facebook helping out. As of right now it's still in a closed Beta, but you can sign up at the site and be notified as to when you can test it out for yourself. [via Docs] Relevant Entries on SlashGear Google to make applications available offline Google Docs Gets Upgraded and Brings A Lot More Features With It Facebook app for Zune HD falls short on debut Microsoft to buy Yahoo? Microsoft to Launch Video Service – SoapBox Cyress add finger-hover tracking to touchscreens [Video] April 21, 2010 at 11:44 AM Last we heard of Cypress Semiconductor, they were showing off their iPhone dev kits and multi-mode touchscreens; now the company has a new touchscreen technology, only this time it can track hover for "mouseover" selections. The new system - which will apparently be supplied as a "hover support module" – will seemingly work with any of Cypress' TrueTouch capacitive touchscreens. Video demo after the cut Hover detection is useful because it adds an extra degree of control to finger-touch touchscreens. Whereas with an active digitizer that uses a special stylus – such as from Wacom's range, and often found on Tablet PCs – you can hover the tip of the pen above the screen and move the mouse that way, a regular capacitive or resistive touchscreen generally only tracks one or more points of contact. To get around that limitation, OSes are either designed to require two touches – one for selection and one for activation, as on Nokia's S60 5th Edition smartphones – or remove hover-style functionality (such as to open menus) altogether. The Cypress system, meanwhile, would allow you to move your finger over the top of a touchscreen device, such as a smartphone, PND or tablet, and have the UI react; the company suggests a dynamic zoom bubble that would follow the fingertip, making small website links easier to read and hit, or pulling up POI information on a map. Cypress expect to have the hover support module available to manufacturers sometime in Q2 2010. Cypress Hover Detection TrueTouch demo: Press Release: Cypress's New Hover Detection for TrueTouch™ Touchscreen Solution Indicates Where a Finger Will Touch as It Approaches Screen New Video Demonstrates How Feature Enables "Mouseover" Selection for Fingers To Change the Way Users Interact with Mobile Device Touchscreens SAN JOSE, Calif., April 21, 2010 – Cypress Semiconductor Corp. (Nasdaq: CY) today announced support for hover detection for its capacitive touchscreen technology. The new feature, driven by Cypress's TrueTouch™, enables smart touchscreen solutions that anticipate the touch of a finger and enlarge content such as points on a map or the font of tiny website links to make them easier to find and select. Hover detection changes the fundamental navigation functions on mobile devices by emulating "mouseover," a feature well known in the personal computer segment for web navigation. The feature delivers easier, more accurate interface navigation for handsets, GPS systems and other mobile applications. A video demonstration of the hover feature is available at www.cypress.com/go/hovervideo. The video includes footage of a TrueTouch touchscreen recognizing a user's finger as it approaches the touch sensor before the finger touches. A corresponding circle on the screen changes size to demonstrate how the application detects the user's finger as it hovers above the screen. "Mobile phone manufacturers are looking for ways to differentiate their products, and features such as hover support and stylus recognition enable them to do just that," said Dhwani Vyas, vice president of the User Interface Business Unit at Cypress. "Delivering a mouseover-like capability to the mobile phone space shows that Cypress continues to focus on creative features aligned with market demand. With so much emphasis on web content to the mobile handset, innovative navigation techniques are necessary to bring a familiar web-browsing experience to the user. Our customers are excited about TrueTouch because its flexible architecture enables them to continuously create and deliver value-added features." Cypress recently announced highly accurate passive stylus support for a tip as thin as 1 mm, allowing users additional levels of accuracy and control for text entry, keyboard, handwriting recognition and other productive functions for mobile applications. A video of Cypress's stylus support is available at www.cypress.com/go/stylusvideo. Cypress's TrueTouch family includes single-touch, multitouch gesture and multitouch all-point offerings. Cypress was the first company to introduce multitouch all-point functionality, which can track an unlimited number of touches. This capability enables designers to create new usage models for products such as mobile handsets, portable media players (PMPs), GPS systems and other products, and has been in mass production since 2008. TrueTouch is the industry's most flexible touchscreen architecture, which allows designers to implement differentiated features and make last-minute design iterations without board changes. Cypress's high performance TMA300 multitouch all-point family provides best-in-class scan times for true multifinger touch and superior signal-to-noise ratio for the most demanding touchscreen applications. Additional information about the TrueTouch solution is available at www.cypress.com/go/TrueTouch. The flexible TrueTouch solution allows customers to rapidly develop leading-edge solutions without having to buy turnkey modules. They have a choice of using touch sensors (glass or film) and LCDs from preferred partners, and can develop innovative mechanical designs ranging from flat to curved surfaces of varying thickness. In addition, TrueTouch devices offer Cypress's legendary noise immunity with patented capacitive sensing technology that enables flawless operation in noisy RF and LCD environments. Availability Cypress is currently working with lead customers on hover support for the TrueTouch touchscreen solution. A hover support module is expected to be broadly available in the second quarter of 2010. About Cypress Cypress delivers high-performance, mixed-signal, programmable solutions that provide customers with rapid time-to-market and exceptional system value. Cypress offerings include the flagship PSoC® programmable system-on-chip families and derivatives such as PowerPSoC® solutions for high-voltage and LED lighting applications, CapSense® touch sensing and TrueTouch™ solutions for touchscreens. Cypress is the world leader in USB controllers, including the high-performance West Bridge® solution that enhances connectivity and performance in multimedia handsets. Cypress is also a leader in high-performance memories and programmable timing devices. Cypress serves numerous markets including consumer, mobile handsets, computation, data communications, automotive, industrial and military. Cypress trades on the Nasdaq Global Select Market under the ticker symbol CY. Visit Cypress online at www.cypress.com. Relevant Entries on SlashGear DIY GSM GPS tracking device A Hovering Mouse for under $80? Sadly not. The Finger Mouse Mitsubishi 3D Touch Panel tracks proximity, hover iTWYF Gloves for Gadget-Users Twitwee Clock replaces cuckoo with Twitter bird [Video] April 21, 2010 at 11:17 AM We're quite fond of bizarre gadgets that hook into Twitter, whether they be tweeting tables, monomes or robot fish, and so we're quite surprised that it's taken someone so long to use the blue Twitter bird logo in a tweeting cuckoo clock. Happily Haroon Baig has filled that gap with his Twitwee Clock, a modified clock that replaces the traditional face with a set of chumby guts and keeps track of Twitter for a preset word, hashtag or username (in this case "TwitweeClock"). Video demo after the cut When that happens, the full tweet is automatically shown on the display, and the bird leaps out and – somewhat incongruously – cuckoos to alert you. Of course you can easily change the keyword, and thus be updated whenever someone mentions your own username or some topic you're particularly interested in tracking. Just don't make it Justin Bieber else you'll never get any peace. The chumby components hook up to an Arduino microcontroller, which is responsible for triggering the mechanical parts of the clock. Baig created a custom chumby widget for the software side, which hooks into the Twitter API. [via MAKE] Relevant Entries on SlashGear Creepy Cuckoo Clock from Michael Sans Orangita Cuckoo Clock adds a new spin to a classic design Geek clock proves you're too dumb to tell time DIY Whereabouts Clock tracks family with Twitter [Video] Dizzy up the squirrel Intel Sandy Bridge CPUs detailed; not backward-compatible with current motherboards April 21, 2010 at 11:01 AM Details of Intel's Sandy Bridge 32nm processors have leaked, the successors to the current Core i3 and Core i5 chips, and anyone hoping for a straightforward upgrade is out of luck. According to documentation acquired by Bit-Tech, the new mainstream Sandy Bridge CPUs will use a new LGA1155 socket, one pin short of the existing LGA1156 sockets, and not be backward compatible. Meanwhile Intel's Sandy Bridge "E" (apparently either "Enthusiast" or "Extreme") "Patsburg" CPUs will get a new LGA2011 socket, with plenty of extra pins for its four channel DDR3 memory controller and 32 lane PCI Express 3.0 support. Both dual- and quad-core mainstream Sandy Bridge processors will be on offer, with targeted TDPs of 65W and 95W respectively, and each will support both Turbo Boost and Hyper Threading. Where the current CPUs have the IGP, PCI Express controller and memory controller onboard, Sandy Bridge will add the integrated graphics too; the memory controller will be the same dual-channel 1333MHz system as now. As for the "Patsburg" enthusiasts' platform, its 32 PCI Express 3.0 lanes can be split as 2×16 or 4×8, depending on how many discrete GPUs are in use, and will be connected via a 4x PCI-E 2.0 DMI link to the Southbridge. Details on the latter are scant, but there's talk of it having two SATA 3Gbps and ten SATA/SAS 6Gbps ports. As for number of cores, various sources have tipped four, six, and even eight in the "Patsburg" chips, using Hyper Threading to double that amount. The mainstream Sandy Bridge CPUs are expected to arrive in late Q4 2010 or, more likely, early Q1 2011, while the enthusiast models aren't predicted to drop until Q3 2011. [via Slashdot] Relevant Entries on SlashGear Intel Sandy Bridge chips packing PCI Express 3.0, super-frugal battery life possible? Intel 32nm Sandy Bridge chips tipped for Q4 2010 Intel talking up super-powerful next-gen integrated graphics? Intel Huron River CPUs coming Q1 2010 with integrated WiMAX New Penryn silicon from Intel promises incredible performance upgrade for PCs and Macs AlessiTAB Android home tablet coming September [Video] April 21, 2010 at 10:05 AM Alessi may be better known for their kitchenwares, but that hasn't stopped them dabbling in electronics. The AlessiTAB has its sights set on your countertop, an Android based touchscreen tablet with integrated WiFi and digital TV. It's the design handiwork of Stefano Giovannoni and is being made for Alessi by Promelit, the same company responsible for the SFR Hubster and the AlessiPhone. Video demo after the cut The AlessiTAB comes with a docking base-station, and Promelit reckon the battery is good for up to 6hrs autonomous use. It's being positioned as a handy way to check Facebook and Twitter, as well as browse the web and display digital media like photos. According to the company, the AlessiTAB is expected to launch in Europe come September 2010, with a roughly €300 ($403) price tag. More details in the video concept demo below, including how the tablet fits onto the dock to recharge; it looks like there'll be USB and an SD card slot, among other ports. [via MoCo Loco] Relevant Entries on SlashGear Archos Android Internet Tablet event announced for September 15th Archos 9 UMPC video demo; Android PMP coming September Archos 7 Home Tablet gets hands-on video: surprisingly good Archos 5 Android Internet Tablet up for Amazon preorder Archos Phone Tablet tipped imminent by case manufacturer AT&T finances buoyed by strong iPhone & connected-devices sales April 21, 2010 at 9:44 AM AT&T have announced their Q1 2010 financial results, and while the carrier's revenues rose 0.3-percent over the same period twelve months ago, the real takeaway is that it's the iPhone that is particularly keeping the network successful. A full 2.7m new iPhone activations were recorded in the three month period – Apple sold 8.75m handsets worldwide – making them the bulk of the new smartphones on the network (which AT&T describes as "integrated devices" i.e. with QWERTY keyboards or touchscreens); however net gain (i.e. taking into account those subscribers who have cancelled their service) was up 1.9m. While that's a record for the carrier, it does imply that without holding the exclusivity on the iPhone in the US, AT&T would have seen a drop in subscribers. Wireless data revenues have also contributed, up 29.8-percent from the last equivalent quarter to $4.1bn. Average monthly revenues per subscriber (ARPU) are up both for contract and post-pay subscribers. Meanwhile it's connected devices that are the surprise grower in AT&T's line-up. 1.1m of the carrier's new sign-ups in the three month period were connected devices such as 3G-enabled ereaders, with a total of 5.8m devices in service. Relevant Entries on SlashGear Apple report latest finances: Mac sales & margins up, iPod touch sales double Google sell 20k Nexus One handsets in first seven days? Nokia Q309 finances report 51% profit slash over last year O2 losing iPhone 3GS exclusivity: on Orange UK later in 2009 "Sales failure" Nexus One shifts just 135k in 74 days? Android 2.2 Froyo in testing; Google I/O release tipped April 21, 2010 at 8:49 AM Google are tipped to be already testing the newest build of Android, "Froyo" 2.2, on devices, with a release predicted to coincide with the Google I/O developer conference on May 19th. Android and Me sifted through their visitor records and turned up numerous logs for Android 2.2. devices; they also apparently heard from separate sources that Google are indeed trialling the updated software, prior to an OTA firmware update for the Nexus One. Among the changes expected are multi-color trackball notifications, more available RAM to the user, and fixes that address persistent touchscreen glitches. Froyo is also believed to allow more access to OpenGL ES 2.0 for developers, potentially permitting better gaming graphics, together with introducing the JIT compiler and perhaps even unlocking the Nexus One's rumored FM radio hardware. While the Nexus One seems guaranteed to get Android 2.2 Froyo, there's also speculation that the Motorola DROID will receive the update at the same time; that's based on the fact that Google will be giving out both Nexus One and DROID handsets to attendees of Google I/O. [via Android Community] Relevant Entries on SlashGear Next Android flavor? Froyo (aka frozen yogurt) Next Android version codename revealed, "Gingerbread" Official Google Phone supposedly spotted again: launch "a certainty" Verizon testing 4G LTE iPhone for 2010 release? HP and Dell testing Android for netbooks Sony HT-SF470 5.1 surround system & CT350/CT150 soundbars debut April 21, 2010 at 8:12 AM Sony have announced three new home audio systems, with two soundbars for the cable-phobic and a 5.1 surround setup for those slightly more ambitious. The Sony HT-SF470 is a 3D-capable 1000 watt (157W x 5 +167W sub) system with three HDMI inputs and an HDMI pass-through port, together with BRAVIA Sync, a Digital Media Port for use with an optional iPod cradle, two digital audio inputs (coax and optical) and digital cinema auto calibration for straightforward setup. As for the HT-CT350, that has 400W (100 watts x 3 channels + 100 watts subwoofer) while the HT-CT150 has 340W (85 watts x 3 channels + 85 watts sub). Both have three HDMI inputs and one HDMI output, and support LPCM Blu-ray Disc audio together with 3D pass-through. They too have dual digital audio inputs, as well as BRAVIA Sync and iPod cradle compatibility. The CT350 comes with a bracket for attaching it to Sony's 40-inch and larger HDTVs, while the CT150 has the same for 32-inch sets. Both sound bars will go on sale in May, priced at $400 for the CT350 and $300 for the C150. Meanwhile the HT-SF470 will arrive in June, priced at $550. Press Release: SONY BOLSTERS AUDIO LINE WITH ITS FIRST 3D CAPABLE SOUND BARS AND A NEW 5.1 CHANNEL HOME THEATER SYSTEM SAN DIEGO, April 21, 2010 – Strengthening the company's breadth of innovative devices supporting the 3D home theater, Sony today introduced three new home audio solutions offering 3D capability. The HT-CT350 and HT-CT150 3.1 channel sound bars and the HT-SF470 5.1 channel home theater system offers consumers flexible solutions to round out the Sony 3D experience and meet the demands of 3D home entertainment. "Sony is the only company innovating in every stage of 3D from creation to playback," said Brian Siegel, vice president of Sony's home audio and video business. "Leveraging this depth of expertise and experience allows the company to deliver the best 3D devices for an unequaled entertainment experience." Simplifying audio and video signal transfer, the new models feature 3D pass-through with HDMI™ repeater (three inputs/one output), and standby pass-through for audio and video devices connected via HDMI. The 400 watt total system power (100 watts x 3 channels + 100 watts subwoofer) HT-CT350 is designed to match Sony's 2010 BRAVIA® televisions and includes a bracket that attaches it directly to a number of 40 and above sets either via a wall mount or the table top stand. The HT-CT150 offers 340 watts of total system power (85 watts x 3 channels + 85 watts sub) and features a design that matches Sony's 2010 32-inch BRAVIA HDTVs. Both models support lossless linear pulse code modulation (LPCM) Blu-ray Disc™ audio via the HDMI input. They also feature BRAVIA Sync™ for control of compatible devices from a single remote, Sony's Digital Media Port for iPod® (iPod cradle sold separately) and two digital audio inputs (one coax and one optical). Sony also introduced the new 5.1 channel HT-SF470 home theater system. The system is 3D capable when paired with a Blu-ray 3D™ player. The 1000 watt (157W x 5 +167W sub) model features 3D pass-through via the three HDMI inputs, HDMI repeater and audio return channel. With floor standing front and rear speakers, the model's S-Air™ wireless technology and wireless multi-room capabilities help trim the number of wires connecting the system with optional accessories (not included). Designed to match Sony's 2010 Blu-ray Disc players and BRAVIA HDTVs, the model features BRAVIA Sync, Digital Media Port for iPod (iPod cradle sold separately), two digital audio inputs (one coax and one optical) and digital cinema auto calibration for easy set up. The HT-CT350 40-inch sound bar system is available this May for about $400. The HT-CT150 32-inch sound bar system, also available this May, retails for about $300. The HT-SF470 surround sound system is available this June for about $550. All models will be available at Sony Style stores, online at www.sonystyle.com, at military base exchanges and at authorized retailers nationwide. Relevant Entries on SlashGear Sony Bravia DAV-X10 – For All Those Tight Spaces CES 2008: Vizio SP5.1 Enhancement Kit makes Black Tie surround sound straightforward Sony XAV-W1 entertainment system for your auto Leon Horizon 414-LCR-X-A slim-line speakers Zvox IncrediBase 575 all-in-one home theater debuts Toshiba REGZA HDTVs with integrated HDD or USB storage outed April 21, 2010 at 7:54 AM Toshiba Japan have updated their REGZA HDTV range, with select models supporting USB hard-drives or coming with 500GB of storage built-in. The Toshiba REGZA R1 series – made up of 32-, 37- and 42-inch sets – and REGZA H1 series – made up of 32- and 37-inch sets – each have a USB port and Full HD resolution (bar on the 32-inch models, which get 720p support). Meanwhile there's also the entry level Toshiba ! REGZA A1 series, with 19-, 22- and 26-inch models all offering 720p HD resolution. The REGZA R1 HDTVs use IPS panels complete with a special enhanced gaming mode for smoother play. There's also DLNA streaming support, four HDMI ports, various PC and analog inputs, plus two 10W speakers. The REGZA 32R1 is due on April 30th, priced at 130,000 yen ($1,393), while the REGZA 42R1 and 37R1 will arrive in early June priced at 230,000 yen ($2,465) and 180,000 yen ($1,929) respectively. As for the REGZA H1, they have 500GB HDDs built-in, with IPS displays, DLNA streaming support and the same sort of connectivity as the R1 series. The REGZA 37H1 and 32H1 will arrive in early June, priced at 200,000 yen ($2,143) and 150,000 yen ($1,607) respectively. Finally, the REGZA A1 series get two HDMI ports, TN panels and no USB recording support; they'll drop in early August, priced at 90,000 yen ($964), 75,000 yen ($804) and 65,000 yen ($697) for the 26A1, 22A1 and 19A1 respectively. [via AV Watch] Relevant Entries on SlashGear Toshiba Regza H3300 – LCD TV with 300GB hard drive storage Toshiba Regza HDTVs start shipping CEDIA 2007 – Toshiba shrink REGZA LCD TV bezel to just .9-inch Toshiba shows off product line for 2010 with TVs, DVD players, notebooks, and more Toshiba REGZA line of LCDs gets 10 new models – they all have an unbelievable number of ports Bluetooth 4.0 finalized: low power mode & boosted range April 21, 2010 at 7:18 AM Bluetooth 3.0 may still be a rarity on devices, but the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) aren't letting that stop them from whipping ahead with the next spec in line. Bluetooth 4.0 has been finalized, and it delivers both a new low-energy mode suited to indecently frugal devices like watches, sensors and remotes, together with a boost in potential range. While the SIG expect most devices to stick with the regular 30 foot/10m range, Bluetooth 4.0 theoretically supports up to 200 feet and beyond. That, they say, will help wireless sensor manufacturers build their mesh-style networks, and the fact that the specification allows for ultra-low-power hardware there'll be less battery changing or charging too. Of course, we'll have to wait a while to actually see devices using the new standard: Bluetooth v4.0 hardware isn't expected to reach the market until late 2010 or early 2011. Press Release: BLUETOOTH 4.0 READY TO ROLL New Specification Extends Range of Bluetooth Technology, Enables m-Health, Sports and Fitness, Security and Home Entertainment Wireless Markets KIRKLAND, WA – April 21, 2010 – Today from its annual All Hands Meeting in Seattle, the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) unveiled more information about its forthcoming Bluetooth Core Specification Version 4.0, with the hallmark feature of low energy technology. Bluetooth v4.0, expected to be brought to market by the end of Q2, will feature a powerful low energy mode designed to enable expansion of the technology in m-health, sports and fitness, security and home entertainment scenarios where button-cell battery devices proliferate. "Bluetooth v4.0 throws open the doors to a host of new markets for Bluetooth manufacturers and products such as watches, remote controls, and a variety of medical and in-home sensors. Many of these products run on button-cell batteries that must last for years versus hours and will also benefit from the longer range enabled by this new version of the Bluetooth specification," said Michael Foley, Ph.D., executive director of the Bluetooth SIG. Bluetooth v4.0 is like three specifications in one – Classic Bluetooth technology, Bluetooth low energy technology, and Bluetooth High Speed technology– all which can be combined or used separately in different devices according to their functionality. For example, sensors like those in pedometers and glucose monitors will run only low energy technology, thus saving power, cost and space within the device. Watches will take advantage of both low energy technology while collecting data from fitness sensors on the body as well as Classic Bluetooth technology when sending that information to a PC, or separately displaying caller ID information when wirelessly connected to a mobile phone. Mobile phones and PCs, which support the widest range of uses, will utilize the full package with Classic, low energy and high speed technology running side by side. As with previous versions of the specification, the range of the Bluetooth v4.0 radio may be optimized according to application. The majority of Bluetooth devices on the market today include the basic 30 foot, or 10 meter, range of the Classic Bluetooth radio, but there is no limit imposed by the Specification. With Bluetooth v4.0, manufacturers may choose to optimize range to 200 feet and beyond, particularly for in-home sensor applications where longer range is a necessity. "The low energy feature of Bluetooth v4.0 is truly groundbreaking," said Nick Jones, senior wireless analyst, Gartner. "At Gartner, we identified it as the top mobile technology to watch for in 2010 primarily because of its ability to smash open the barriers to new markets for Bluetooth technology and consumer electronics device manufacturers. We're excited to see this one hit the market." Availability The specification for Bluetooth v4.0 with the hallmark feature of low energy technology was first introduced in December 2009. Samples of sensors utilizing this specification are available from some silicon manufacturers today. Integration of Bluetooth low energy wireless technology within the Bluetooth specification will be completed before June 30, 2010. Upon completion, mobile phone and PC manufacturers may enhance their Bluetooth product offerings with support for Bluetooth low energy wireless technology. End-user devices with Bluetooth v4.0 are expected to reach the market in late 2010 or early 2011. About Bluetooth® Wireless Technology Bluetooth wireless technology is the global short-range wireless standard for personal connectivity of a broad range of electronic devices. The technology continues to evolve, building on its inherent strengths – small-form factor radio, low power, low cost, built-in security, robustness, ease-of-use, and ad hoc networking abilities. This evolution now provides manufacturers and consumers with three options for connecting wirelessly – Classic Bluetooth technology for use in a wide range of consumer electronics; Bluetooth high speed technology for the transfer of video, music and photos between phones, cameras, camcorders, PCs and TVs; and Bluetooth low energy technology for low power sensor devices and new web services within the healthcare, fitness, security, home entertainment, automotive and automation industries. More than eight new Bluetooth enabled products are qualified every working day and more than 19 million Bluetooth units are shipping per week. There are nea! rly three billion Bluetooth devices in the marketplace and that number climbs daily, making it the only proven wireless choice for developers, product manufacturers, and consumers worldwide. About the Bluetooth SIG The Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG), comprised of leaders in the telecommunications, computing, consumer electronics, automotive and network industries, is driving development of Bluetooth wireless technology and bringing it to market. The Bluetooth SIG includes Promoter member companies Ericsson, Intel, Lenovo, Microsoft, Motorola, Nokia and Toshiba, along with more than 13,000 Associate and Adopter member companies. The Bluetooth SIG, Inc. headquarters are located in Kirkland, Washington, U.S.A. For more information please visit www.bluetooth.com. Relevant Entries on SlashGear SIG unveils Bluetooth low energy wireless tech Bluepeaker Bluetooth speakerphone & GPS puck Bluetooth 4.0 devices on sale Q4 2010 SOCOM PS3 Bluetooth headset revealed Wibree brought into the Bluetooth fold Robot has its own beer fridge, radio, and robot arm April 21, 2010 at 7:04 AM I like robots and I like cold drinks so it's a win-win when you can combine the two. A guy over at Make has developed a cool robot that has a small fridge for delivering beer along with a radio and a robotic arm that I totally had when I was a kid. The arm is an Armatron unit that looks exactly like the one I got for my 8th birthday. The works appears to be mounted on a power wheelchair base and the arm has its own camera. The thing is also armed to stop beer thieves. It has a semi-automatic BB gun to ward off foes complete with a laser sight. The radio is apparently for making strange robot sounds. The bot also has some sort of brain that allows it to avoid obstacles. Relevant Entries on SlashGear Asahi Robocco BeerBot – Your own beer server! Robot Clones in Beijing Every alcoholic's best friend Spyke – The Robot Does Skype Video Calls Roller-Walker Robot Can Walk Like Insect Or Make Like A Tree Adidas USB drive looks like a suitcase April 21, 2010 at 6:51 AM Companies make all sorts of products that they give out to folks to help promote their brand. Often these products take the shape of one of the company's popular products. Adidas has some flash drives that turned up at Yanko Design that it is handing out to special folks that look like a roll on suitcase. I didn't even know Adidas made luggage. I would have related the brand more with shoes, so why not a shoe shaped flash drive. At any rate, the flash drive is apparently made in black, red, or green, has a flip out USB connector, and can be hung from the neck on a lanyard. There are no specs offered and it looks like something that you would toss to the writer masses at a trade show. Perhaps it's supposed to be a gear bag for athletes, not a suitcase. Relevant Entries on SlashGear The Chair Suitcase – Bet you can't guess what it does Live Luggage offers battery-operated suitcase Samsung F110 Adidas phone dropping soon Adidas Halo kicks help you re-up your shoe game and add to your gamer cred at the same time Climbing UP suitcase concept helps people tackle stairs with ease Crazy Devon Tread 1 watch is $15K! April 21, 2010 at 6:41 AM There are two types of folks who wear watches I reckon, the type who just want to know what time it is and the type who want a status symbol. For the latter group a new watch has debut from a company called Devon. The watch is the Tread 1 and it is very cool. The downside of a very cool watch from an exclusive firm is that the Tread 1 is crazy expensive at $15,000. The thing has a gob of moving parts and it seems the watch gets its name from the fact that the numbers are printed on moving belts like a treadmill. These belts are woven together and display the time in boxes printed on the crystal of the watch. Each band gets its own tiny motor and Gizmodo says the thing is made from bulletproof polycarbonate. This watch is very cool indeed. Relevant Entries on SlashGear Better Energy Systems announces expansion of "tread" line Space Invaders Sneakers Maze of Time watch gives me a headache Crazy Instant Trend watch from Tokyoflash Aston Martin watch makes you feel like Bond T-Mobile set to get Garminfone in US April 21, 2010 at 6:28 AM With more and more people relying on their smartphones and mobile phones for uses other than just making calls and surfing the web, the devices are gaining popularity quickly. One of the things that many users have replaced with mobile phones is a dedicated PND thanks to the applications available for GPS navigation on mobiles. T-Mobile and Garmin have announced that T-Mobile will be the exclusive provider for the new Garminfone. The Garminfone is a premium GPS navigation phone that offers 3G connectivity and a touch screen. The screen is 3.5-inches and navigation uses the Garmin database. Other features include a 3MP camera with autofocus and geotagging of images. The device has apps installed to find lowest gas prices, movie listings and more near you. The handset runs Android and is expected to arrive in T-Mobile stores this spring. Relevant Entries on SlashGear Sidekick III coming to the UK? Motorola announces red SLVR for AIDS benefit T-Mobile to launch HSDPA in Europe Firefox for your mobile phone – renders full web Windows Mobile Crossbow – Next Gen Windows Mobile OS Sony set to launch micro four thirds camera on May 11 April 21, 2010 at 6:13 AM When the micro four thirds cameras first started to hit the market, it was easy to mistake them for more compact DSLR cameras. The big difference between the micro four thirds units and the DSLR is that the former lacks the mirror used by DSLR cameras. Rumors are circulating that Sony is set to get into the micro four thirds camera market with a new alpha offering that will bring some interesting features to the category. One of the most interesting rumors is that the Sony cameras will have some sort of new snap on lens mounting system. Anyone who has changed a lens on an existing camera knows the twisting involved to do so. Rumors are also claiming that all of the Sony micro four thirds lenses will be made using Chromium. This is supposed to give the lenses excellent image quality and make them cheap as well. I can't see the Sony name being associated with anything cheap personally. So far there lenses have been rumored including a 16mm f/2.8 unit, an 18-55mm F3.5-5.6, and an 18-200mm zoom lens. The launch date for the camera and lenses is pegged as May 11. Relevant Entries on SlashGear Olympus Pen E-P2 Micro Four Thirds camera prematurely listed Olympus E-P1 Micro Four Thirds camera leaks Olympus Pen E-P2 accessories spotted; launch on November 13th? Panasonic Four Thirds camera with intelligent Live View tipped by patent, coming to CES 2010? Sony compact Alpha DSLR concept test-bed for new snap-on lens system? UK Android users get Google Maps Navigation April 21, 2010 at 6:09 AM Android users of the UK, rejoice! After enviously peering over the Atlantic at our US siblings and their Google Maps Navigation access, an impromptu overnight update has delivered spoken turn-by-turn directions to UK Android devices. The update – GMN Beta v4.1.1 – offers pretty much all the features from the US version, including 2D/3D map views and various overlays with POI, fuel station and traffic information. If you have a Nexus One you can also search for a destination by voice command. Google originally said that the limit on Navigation functionality was down to map data rights; it seems that they've now been able to negotiate those rights for the UK market along with the US. It remains to be seen whether they'll do the same for mainland Europe, or indeed update any of the Google Maps apps for other platforms such as Windows Mobile or iPhone OS. [via Android Community] Relevant Entries on SlashGear Android 1.6 phones get Google Maps Navigation beta Google Maps Navigation hack blocked outside of US Google Maps Navigation hacked again: partial functionality restored Google Maps Navigation hacked to work outside US [Updated] Google Maps Navigation beta for Android 2.0: turn-by-turn, Car UI, more [Video] Proteus Raisin Personal Health Monitor clears FDA, works with iPhone April 21, 2010 at 5:59 AM Each day more and more apps are coming around for the iPhone that add the ability to do new things to the device. One of the latest offerings is called the Proteus wireless Raisin personal health monitor and the device has just been cleared by the FDA. Exactly how the Raisin came by that name is a mystery considering from the images it looks nothing like a raisin and the sensor seems to be very large. The sensor can capture data like heart rate, physical activity, body position, and other logged events. The data can then be sent via Bluetooth to devices like the iPhone or a computer for merging with mHealth applications. The sensor sticks to the skin of the user with an adhesive bandage. Pricing and availability of the Raisin Personal Monitor is unknown. Relevant Entries on SlashGear Steve Jobs taking a leave of absence from Apple due to heath concerns ZigBee health care profile gets ratified Top you monitor off with these cuties SyncMaster 940UX – Samsung ships first monitor with USB connector Remember the Unlocked iPhone Being Sold In China? Yeah, It Works. Sanyo announces PLC-WM5500 and PLC-WM4500 projectors April 21, 2010 at 5:49 AM Sanyo has been in the projector business for a while and makes a number of cameras and other devices. The latest projectors from Sanyo have been unveiled and both projectors can be had with optional power zoom lenses. The new projectors include the PLC-WM4500 and PLC-WM5500; versions with the power lens add an L at the end of the model number. The projectors each have PiP functionality allowing them to show two images at once on a single screen. The resolution on each is 1280 x 800. The WM5500 has 5500 ANSI lumens of brightness and the WM4500 has 4500 lumens. Contrast ratio on both projectors is 800:1. Connectivity includes DVI-D, HDMI 1.3, D-Sub, and more. Each projector also has a wired remote and Ethernet port. The 5500 will sell for $5,645 in July with the 4500 selling for $4,545 in August. Relevant Entries on SlashGear Sanyo announces Industrial Grade Dual Lamps LCD Projectors Sanyo unveils PLC-XM150/150L and PLC-XM100-100L projectors for large venues Sanyo announces two ultraportable green projectors Sanyo debuts two bright projectors Sanyo announced PLC-XF71, an ultra bright dual-lamp LCD projector Cool Sierra Wireless AirCard 890 headed to AT&T April 21, 2010 at 5:38 AM There are a lot of homes and offices that have more than one computer that needs mobile broadband. The problem is that many of the notebooks out there still don't use the same card slot for add-in cards. Sierra Wireless has a new broadband modem that is heading to AT&T that has a dual slot design letting it work on more notebooks. The device has a dual design that can operate in a PC Card slot or a newer Express Card slot. The card will turn up on the AT&T network on May 5. Other than the slick dual slot design, the card also supports AT&T's new, faster HSPA 7.2 networks. If the faster network isn't available, the device also supports plain 3G networks. Other features include integrated GPS for location-based services and more. The card will sell for $49.99 after a new agreement and a mail-in rebate. [via SlashPhone] Relevant Entries on SlashGear Sierra Wireless To Release USB Version of EV-DO, HSDPA Revision A Modems Compass 885 USB and AirCard 885e ExpressCard from Sierra Wireless debut in MWC Sierra Wireless introduces AirCar! d 597E EV-DO Revision A ExpressCard Sprint AirCard 402 EVDO card for ExpressCard & PC Card Sprint Announces Plans To Expand EV-DO Revision A-Capable Device Portfolio Battery Engineer recharges plain batteries April 21, 2010 at 5:29 AM I have all manner of gadgets and two kids in my house with all manner of toys. We consume lots of batteries. I have a number of rechargables around but we still use a lot of plain batteries as well. Using many normal batteries gets expensive and the green types don't want to throw batteries into the landfill. A new device is set to debut next month in the US called the ReZap Battery Engineer. The device claims to let the user recharge plain batteries up to ten times. The charger supports charging of up to four batteries of different sizes at one time. Supported battery sizes include AAAA, AAA, AA, C, D, 9 Volt, and lantern batteries. The device will sell at the PC Treasures website for $59.95 starting in May. Relevant Entries on SlashGear USB Battery Charger from Apex Hack – Turn one giant 6V battery into 32 AA batteries MacBook and MacBookPro battery charger – Newer Tech Simple Battery Convert! er From Brando Nokia recalls 46 million cell phone batteries Patriot unveils Zephyr SSD line April 21, 2010 at 5:21 AM Patriot has a number of different SSDs in the line up already and the company has announced a new SSD family called the Zephyr series. The new SSDs use the JMicron JMF612 controller and have Windows 7 TRIM support. The SSDs are available in 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB capacities. The controller level cache for the line has 64MB of DDR2 and Patriot promises high performance for the series. Write speed is claimed to be 180MB/s and read speed is 240MB/s on the 256GB drive. The read speed for the 128GB and 64GB drives is the same 240MB/s but write speeds differ with the 128GB SSD providing 145MB/s write and the 64GB offering 85MB/s write speed. The line uses an aluminum housing with NAND flash inside. Relevant Entries on SlashGear Patriot unveils encrypted Bolt flash drive Patriot reveals new enthusiast Viper II Sector 5 RAM NEC unveils new line of PCs in Japan Chic women's laptop bags from Tar! gus Iomega Launches 250GB Portable Ego drive for Pat Fans HP Compaq Airlife 100 smartbook US launch tipped by product page April 21, 2010 at 5:17 AM Specs on the HP Compaq Airlife 100 smartbook weren't exactly in short supply – the company covered pretty much everything we'd want to know in their original release and when we grabbed hands-on time with the ultraportable a few months back – but it's nice to have everything in one place. HP's US site has been updated with a product page for the Airlife 100, confirming its 1GHz Snapdragon chipset and customized Android OS. Video demo after the cut There's 512MB of RAM and 512MB of ROM – the latter being important as Android currently only allows you to save apps to the ROM – together with 16GB of SSD data storage (15GB user-accessible). The display is a 10.1-inch 1024 x 600 resistive touchscreen and there's a removable 28Wh battery which HP told us would be good for in excess of 12hrs runtime. Among the preloaded apps are RoadSync Exchange – which offers pretty decent mail/contacts/calendar sync – and NDrive GPS with points-of-interest and regional mapping. Still no word on availability, though the presence of a US product page does seem to imply that the Airlife 100 is coming to at least parts of North America. HP Compaq Airlife 100 hands-on demo: [via Ubergizmo and via MyHPMini] Relevant Entries on SlashGear HP Compaq Airlife 100 3G smartbook announced HP Compaq Airlife 100 smartbook video demo HP shows off new Compaq logo on their latest laptop Lenovo Skylight smartbook US launch delayed until June Compaq Mini 700 netbook is HP Mini 1000 clone Lenovo IdeaPad V460 with Core i3 on sale now April 21, 2010 at 4:41 AM A new budget Lenovo consumer notebook has emerged, though we're still waiting for the official details from the company themselves. The Lenovo IdeaPad V460 is a 14-inch Core i3 based machine with a 1366 x 768 display and up to 4GB of DDR3 memory; graphics are courtesy of Intel's HD chipset, though unfortunately there doesn't appear to be a switchable NVIDIA option like on other models in the V Series! . Storage is a 320GB 5,400rpm hard-drive and a DVD burner, and there's WiFi along with Bluetooth 2.1+EDR as standard. OS is Windows 7, plus there's a fingerprint scanner, integrated data encryption and the ability to lock out the USB ports to prevent illicit memory sticks being used to suck out all your holiday photos. Two models of V460 are currently on offer, the $899 base machine with an Intel Core i3-330M 2.13GHz processor, and a $999 model with Core i3-330M 2.26GHz processor. Both should ship within 13 business days. [via Dealzon - thanks Ian!] Relevant Entries on SlashGear Lenovo IdeaPad Y460 and Y560 get Core i3, i5 & i7 options Lenovo IdeaPad S10 to get 8.9-inch sibling Lenovo Y460 IdeaPad available on Lenovo website Lenovo IdeaPad U150 ultraportable arrives in US Lenovo IdeaPad U450p on sale now: 14-inch CULV ultraportable BlackBerry 9670 OS 6.0 clamshell leaks April 21, 2010 at 4:23 AM Shield your eyes and tuck the children back safe into the coal scuttle; the latest RIM clamshell has broken cover, and the BlackBerry 9670 is certainly distinctive. The chubby folder was spotted by the gang over at BGR, and not only is the first OS 6.0 device we've seen, but the first BlackBerry to have a 5-megapixel camera. There's also CDMA connectivity – tipping a Verizon or Sprint launch – along with WiFi, Bluetooth and a microUSB port. Storage is via microSD card, and there's both a large external color display and a 360 x 480 internal screen above a full QWERTY keyboard and optical trackpad. No word on when we could see it launch, but we're hoping RIM go through a few more design revisions just to knock out some of the excess ugly. Right now, with the keyboard looking like it was simply pried off a regular BlackBerry and slotted in, the whole thing seems a little Frankenstein's monster for our liking. [via SlashPhone] Relevant Entries on SlashGear BlackBerry Storm firmware 4.7.0.90 leaks for GSM & CDMA handsets BlackBerry slider live photos leaked BlackBerry Curve ousts iPhone 3G from US smartphone top-spot Bell Mobility HSPA device launch list leaks BlackBerry Gemini 9300 leaks: the 3G Curve $599 ASUS Eee Keyboard gets Amazon preorder April 21, 2010 at 4:12 AM Ah, the ASUS Eee Keyboard; so long delayed it's almost become a techies' urban myth, the day of nettop reckoning looks almost upon us. A listing for the Eee Keyboard – which packs a netbook's components into a QWERTY keyboard form-factor, complete with a touchscreen display where the numeric keypad would be – has shown up on Amazon, accepting preorders for $599. Video demo after the cut That gets you an Intel Atom N270 1.6GHz CPU, 1GB of RAM and a 16GB SSD, along with that 5-inch WVGA multitouch touchscreen, WiFi b/g/n, gigabit ethernet and Bluetooth 2.1+EDR. Since the idea is that you hook the keyboard up to your big-screen TV for multimedia purposes, ASUS have also fitted an HDMI output and UWB dongle, along with the usual VGA and trio of USB 2.0 ports. According to NetbookNews the video below is a demo of the final build of the Eee Keyboard, so hopefully this is what buyers will see when they hook it up to their HDTVs. They reckon the long-awaited nettop will begin shipping April 23rd, just a few days away. [via Netbooked] Relevant Entries on SlashGear ASUS Eee PC T91MT multitouch up for US preorder Leica M9 digital range finder gets $7k Amazon preorder ASUS Eee PC 1005PR with Broadcom HD decoder up for $400 preorder ASUS Eee PC T101MT shows up for preorder in Germany Archos 5 Android Internet Tablet up for Amazon preorder HP All-In-One 200 desktop debuts, plus Core i3/i5 updates for TouchSmarts April 21, 2010 at 4:09 AM HP have announced new updates to their TouchSmart all-in-one touchscreen desktop range, together with a new ultra-slim desktop PC. The HP All-In-One 200 is a new 21.5-inch Full HD desktop, complete with a Pentium E5400 2.7GHz processor, 4GB of RAM and Intel GMA X4500HD graphics, WiFi b/g/n and gigabit ethernet. Video demos after the cut As for the compact desktop, that's the HP Compaq 6005 Pro Ultra Slim, with a choice of various AMD Sempron, Athlon or Phenom CPUs along with up to 8GB of RAM and ATI Radeon HD 4200 graphics. SSD storage is optional, while ports include 10 USB 2.0 and DisplayPort. Meanwhile the existing HP TouchSmart 600 now gets Beats Audio support, together with new Core i3 and i5 CPU options. Demo videos of HP's new range below, but be warned; they've given the 6005 Pro a bizarre "sexy voice" which may just leave you having nightmares. HP Compaq 6005 Pro Ultra Slim Desktop: Corel Paint It! On the HP TouchSmart: Press Release: HP Offers Powerful Performance and Energy Efficiency in Desktop PCs for Consumers and Businesses Beats Audio and new touch applications now available on HP TouchSmart PCs PALO ALTO, Calif., April 21, 2010 – HP today introduced two energy-efficient, space-saving desktop PCs along with updates to its TouchSmart PC, including new Intel™ Core® processor options, an enhanced experience with Beats™ Audio and new touch applications from Corel® and Roxio. The HP All-in-One200 features an ideal balance of form and function, offering consumers the performance of a traditional tower and monitor in one sleek, integrated design. The HP Compaq 6005 Pro Ultra Slim desktop PC delivers business users energy efficiency, productivity and security in a small, sleek design. "HP has expanded its portfolio with compelling desktop offerings for consumers and businesses who want great performance and design," said Anneliese Olson, director, Worldwide Product Marketing, Desktop PCs, HP. "These new offerings consume less energy and are proof of our commitment to reducing waste in the design, manufacturing, packaging and transportation of our products." The HP All-in-One200 is simple to set up and features an integrated webcam, built-in wireless LAN and HP's MediaSmart software suite. Additional features include: 21.5-inch diagonal, high definition LED display; display is mercury free and uses less energy than previous-generation displays ENERGY STAR® 5.0 qualified; EPEAT® Silver registration First consumer desktop to include some BFR/PVC free components The HP Compaq 6005 Pro Ultra Slim desktop (USDT) is an enterprise-grade performance PC designed with the environment in mind. Featuring VISION Pro technology from AMD, the HP Compaq 6005 Pro USDT delivers high-performance computing in a compact design. HP's second business PC and the first AMD PC in the industry to be BFR/PVC free from the wall to the mouse, the HP Compaq 6005 Pro USDT offers an 87-percent-efficient power supply, along with meeting ENERGY STAR® qualifications and EPEAT® registration. Engineered to reproduce the sound quality found in music studios, Beats Audio is now available on the HP TouchSmart 600. The HP TouchSmart 300 and 600 PC series also now feature new built-for-touch applications, including Paint It! by Corel and Roxio CinemaNow. Relevant Entries on SlashGear New Upgrades in XPS and 30-inch LCD from Dell Intel announces first Core 2 Duo chips with 1333MHz FSB Intel Unveils Core 2 Duo Desktop CPUs MacBook Air refresh delayed by ULV Core i3/i5 shortage? 8-Core Mac Pro Desktop Confirmed This eanklin, TN 37064